Dental Implants - Aftercare

Because your driving ability will be somewhat impaired on the day of the operation due to the use of local anaesthetic, it is recommended that you bring an escort. Solid foods can be consumed after the effects of the local anaesthetic have faded. Liquids can be taken soon after the operation. Hot drinks should, however, be completely avoided.
In the first two days after the operation, i.e. after the implant has been anchored in the jawbone, you will have to deal with pain in the affected area. This can be mitigated using analgesics. Please adhere to the dosages given to your by your doctor. Swelling must also be taken into consideration; however, the affects of this will fade when external cooling is applied. Demanding physical activities (sports) and irritants such as alcohol, nicotine, and black tea should be avoided in the first three days after the procedure.¹²

About a week after the integration of the dental replacement the first check-up should take place. It should be noted that aftercare is just as important as professional installation and monitoring of the implant/dental replacement. Above all, this includes daily, exceedingly thorough cleaning of the teeth in order to avoid implant inflammations (periimplantitis) and the accumulation of film. Such inflammations are often the cause of significant damage. Sugar-induced tooth decay, smoking, and insufficient oral hygiene increase the risk of inflammation on or around the implant. When cleaning the teeth, you should make use of dental floss.
You should visit your dentist no fewer than 1-2 times per year for check-ups (more frequently if you are at increased risk for periimplantitis). During your visit, your dentist will examine the implant and the surrounding area before employing professional dental cleaning techniques. Awareness of these check-up sessions as well as thorough oral hygiene are fundamental requirements for a long-lasting implant.¹³